Alocasia brisbanensis (F.M.Bailey) Domin

• Genus: Alocasia
• Botanical Background: First described by Frederick Manson Bailey; transferred to its current name by Karel Domin in 1915.

• Geographical Range: Native to subtropical and tropical rainforests of eastern Australia, especially along riverbanks and gullies.
• Environment: Thrives in shaded understories with high humidity, rich organic soils, and consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Leaves

• Large, peltate‑to‑sagittate leaves up to 1 m long
• Glossy dark green surface with prominent veins

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Summer blooms feature a greenish‑cream spathe surrounding a spadix
• Lightly perfumed to attract pollinators

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial herbaceous perennial with a creeping rhizome
• Forms clumps of petioles rising from underground stems

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid direct sun which can scorch foliage

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Avoid overly dry periods. Moderate to high humidity (60–80 %) is ideal

Soil & Potting Mix

• Rich, well‑draining mix with organic matter (peat or coco coir) and perlite for aeration

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Maintain 15–29 °C
• Balanced organic fertilizer or compost every 1–2 months during active growth

Division and Cuttings

• Best in spring: divide the creeping rhizome into sections, each with 1–2 growth points, and pot separately in fresh mix

Seeds

• Less common; requires fresh seeds, warm temperatures, and high humidity; germination can take several weeks

Typical Issues

• Spider mites and mealybugs
• Root rot caused by prolonged waterlogging

Treatment Recommendations

• Insecticidal soap or neem oil, increase humidity
• Improve drainage, reduce watering frequency

• Name “cunjevoi” comes from the Bundjalung language of northern New South Wales
• All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals; sap can irritate skin and eyes

• Valued for dramatic foliage and tropical appearance; used in shaded gardens and as a statement houseplant

Wild Population Status

• Listed as Least Concern under Queensland nature conservation act; stable wild populations

Market Availability

• Widely available in specialty nurseries and online; moderately common among aroid enthusiasts